Nigeria's Minister of State for Defence, H.E. Dr. Bello Mohammad Matawalle MON, has unequivocally expressed his concern on the recent incidents in the local government councils in Osun State.
In the light of this significant development, according to a statement signed by Iyogun Sunday, on behalf of the Director Information and Public Relations at the Ministry, he has called upon security agencies to take proactive measures to maintain law and order in the state.
Matawalle emphasized that the ruling is not only a reflection of the judiciary’s independence but also aligns seamlessly with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration’s unwavering commitment to upholding justice, equity, and the rule of law across the nation.
He highlighted that the recent incident in Osun state in which some lives were lost should not be allowed to continue. As a minister of state for defence, my duty also includes protection of lives and properties of all citizens.
“This affirmation stands as a testament to the administration’s dedication to ensuring that democratic principles are respected and upheld at all levels of governance,” he stated.
In his statement, Matawalle urged all stakeholders, political leaders, community members, and civil society organizations to respect the rule of law and engage in constructive dialogue.
He stressed the importance of collaboration in fostering a peaceful and conducive environment in Osun State, which is vital for the progress and development of the region.
Furthermore, he called on the citizens of Osun State to remain calm and avoid actions that could escalate tensions, assuring them that the federal government is committed to ensuring their safety as security has been elevated.
He reiterated that maintaining peace is paramount and that the government will support all efforts aimed at achieving stability and harmony within the state.
Matawalle concluded by reaffirming the administration’s resolve to protect the democratic rights of all citizens and to work tirelessly towards a peaceful Nigeria, where justice prevails and the rule of law is upheld.
Meanwhile Osun State High Court in Ilesa has ordered the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission, (OSSIEC), to conduct elections for the vacant positions of chairmen and councillors in the 30 local government areas of the South-West state and ordered security agencies to provide security for the election.
This court gave the order on Friday, sequel to a suit brought before the court by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), one of the parties participating in the election.
“An order of this honourable court is granted, directing, mandating, and compelling the defendants to fill the vacancies across the 30 Local Government Areas of Osun State through a democratic process by proceeding to conduct the Local Government ELECTIONS already scheduled by the defendants for 22nd of February, 2025,” the order read.
Justice Adeyinka Aderibigbe who gave the order also asked security agencies to provide security and peace before, during, and after the election.
“An order of this honourable court is granted, directing, mandating, and compelling the defendants to fill the vacancies across the 30 Local Government Areas of Osun State through a democratic process by proceeding to conduct the Local Government ELECTIONS already scheduled by the defendants for 22nd of February, 2025,” the order read.
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